Thank you to everyone who put our value of being Environmentally Responsible into action on Earth Day! We asked employees to share their actions to protect our environment for a chance to win a Republic Services Diecast Electric Truck from the Company Store! We’re also happy to announce our winners of the Recycle, Trash or Compost quiz! Congratulations to all of our lucky winners:
Earth Day Essay Contest Winners:
Alyssa J., Manager Air and Gas, Phoenix, AZ
“I believe that all of our individual small steps add up to BIG progress. I work to minimize my waste volume by using reusable cups, cloth diapering, making and refilling products instead of buying new containers, replacing as many single-use items with multi-use alternatives, composting, and choosing used items before buying new. When I walk my dogs or hike in the neighborhood, I bring extra plastic shopping bags to pick up trash along the way, and every Earth Day I join a locally organized cleanup effort to pick up litter. Every year, I resolve to adopt one more Environmentally Responsible habit!”
Kristine W., Billing Coordinator, Pontiac, IL
“I practice our value of Environmentally Responsibility in many everyday ways. I use reusable bags for all shopping instead of plastic, and I clean with a natural vinegar-and-dish-soap solution that I also use to control weeds. I help others repurpose items they might otherwise throw away and teach proper recycling practices, including breaking down boxes and rinsing plastic and glass bottles before recycling. I repurpose egg cartons to start seeds and save Styrofoam cartons in case schools can use them for art projects. I also use solar-powered lights in my yard and gardens instead of electric lighting.”
Kris provided many examples of how she lives our value of being Environmentally Responsible, these are just a few examples! Also, we’d like to recognize Kris for her 34 years of service at Republic Services!
Ron C., HazMat Industrial Services Driver/Tech, Panama City, FL
“I’ve started making my own soap and laundry detergent at home using organic and non-GMO ingredients, which keeps harsh chemicals out of the water supply and cuts down on plastic packaging. I also commute by motorcycle and recently purchased a hybrid vehicle to lower fuel consumption and emissions. Small changes at home and on the road add up more than people realize.”
Trey S., Fleet Maintenance Supervisor, Little Rock, AR
“I keep appliances and devices unplugged when they’re not in use to conserve energy and extend their lifespan. My family also has trash pick-up days, collecting litter from streets and yards. In addition, I maintain my tire pressure on the upper end of the specification to reduce rolling resistance and improve fuel efficiency. All small things, but every little bit helps.”
Jessica S., Lead A/P Support Specialist, Indianapolis, IN
“Living the value of being environmentally responsible is very important to me. I strive to be a good steward of the environment by gardening organically, composting all kitchen waste and yard debris, planting native species, and participating in No Mow May so insects can forage on the season’s first blooms (dandelions, wild violet, clover, etc.).”
Earth Day Quiz Winners:
- Dawn G., Billing Assistant, Watersmeet, MI
- Alex J, Manager Financial Support, Phoenix, AZ
- Eric O., Ops Manager Hauling, Winchester, VA
- Christina R., Senior Manager Talent Acquisition, Phoenix, AZ
- Allison V. Senior Customer Support Specialist, Livonia, Michigan,